Born to Play: do & dare like an artist

Breaking rules

The first part of the exhibition features works by artists who break rules. Roman Signer and Navid Nuur’s art isn’t like any art we’re familiar with, such as a painting. Roman makes objects fly or explode that aren’t meant to do so, such as a kayak or a table. Navid throws darts at his art. You are also invited to do something you wouldn’t normally do: throw darts at Navid’s artwork. By breaking rules, these artists show that new ideas come about when you’re not afraid to turn things upside down. 

Free play

The second part of the exhibition shows works by artists who apply free play, using objects from home, the street, or their own bodies. When you take a playful look at objects, something special happens. Ine Schröder uses string, wire, wood, strips of paper and fabric to create new shapes. There are also photos by melanie bonajo, in which she poses people in uncomfortable positions, wearing everyday things. You will also encounter these items on the rubbing table, where you have the chance to make your own art. Just cover an object with paper and colour over it using a pencil, creating an artistic relief on the paper.

Dress up

Becoming someone else is also a type of play. This is known as ‘acting’; using clothing, costumes and a set, you can put yourself in someone else’s shoes for a little while. Artists Ferdinand Erfmann and James Ensor painted masks and scenes from onstage and behind the curtain. Anouk Kruithof makes videos of people dressed as plants, showing how humans and plants might one day merge and live together more harmoniously. 

Large mirrors, lots of lights and costumes. This part of the exhibition gives you the feeling you are about to go on stage. You can also dress up here, giving you the brief chance to stand in the shoes of the people you see in the artworks.

Pixel fun

Not all art is made using paint and a brush. Some artists work with computers. Peter Struycken and Hussein Shikha use pixels to create art. These small, coloured squares are what make up an image. Want to try your hand at playing with pixels? Create your own pixelated work on the kaleidoscopic table.